Self-locking clip mechanism and mobile device holder incorporating the same

ABSTRACT

A clip for coupling a portable computing device to a shopping cart comprises an inner sleeve. The inner sleeve partially encircles and applies a force to a tubular element of the shopping cart. An outer sleeve partially encircles the inner sleeve and couples the inner sleeve to the tubular element of the shopping cart. One of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve includes a protrusion that mates with a groove in the other of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve for locking the inner sleeve in the outer sleeve. The inner sleeve further includes a interlock slide that extends from a region of the inner sleeve not encircled by the outer sleeve for communicating with a mobile device cradle. The portable computing device is coupled to the mobile device cradle. A mobile device holder holds a mobile device for a shopper while shopping in a retail store.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. PatentApplication No. 62/440,713, filed on Dec. 30, 2016, and entitledSELF-LOCKING CLIP MECHANISM, and U.S. Patent Application No. 62/455,126,filed on Feb. 6, 2017, and entitled MOBILE DEVICE HOLDER, the contentsof each of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present inventive concepts relate generally to holders for portablecomputing devices in a shopping environment, and more specifically, to amobile device holding including self-locking clip mechanism for securinga portable computing device cradle to a shopping cart.

BACKGROUND

Retail establishments such as supermarkets, department stores, or otherstores continue to seek solutions for improving a customer experience,for example, by implementing technology to reduce long lines at acheckout.

Portable computing devices such as smartphones, computing tablets or thelike may provide useful tools for retail store customers. For example,portable computing devices can be used by customers to obtain productinformation, track purchases, store shopping lists, map out a shoppingtrip based on products needed or favorite departments, and/or pay forpurchases.

It is desirable for portable computing devices configured to provideshopping-related functions to be securely coupled to a shopping cart orother carrying apparatus so that the customer can push the cart whileoperating the device in a hands-free manner.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, provided is a clip for coupling a portable computingdevice to a shopping cart, the clip comprising: an inner sleeve, whereinthe inner sleeve partially encircles and applies a force to a tubularelement of the shopping cart; and an outer sleeve coupled to the innersleeve, wherein the outer sleeve partially encircles the inner sleeveand couples the inner sleeve to the tubular element of the shoppingcart, wherein one of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve includes aprotrusion that mates with a groove in the other of the inner sleeve andthe outer sleeve for locking the inner sleeve in the outer sleeve, theinner sleeve further including a interlock slide that extends from aregion of the inner sleeve not encircled by the outer sleeve forcommunicating with a mobile device cradle, the portable computing devicecoupled to the mobile device cradle.

In some embodiments, the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve both have aC-shaped cross-section.

In some embodiments, the interlock slide couples to a groove on thedevice to couple the device to the clip.

In some embodiments, the inner sleeve further comprises two ridgeprotrusions, one on either side of the inner sleeve outer surface.

In some embodiments, the outer sleeve comprises two openings, one eachthrough either side of the outer sleeve.

In some embodiments, the outer sleeve locks onto the inner sleeve inresponse to the outer sleeve partially encircling the inner sleeve andeach one of the two ridge protrusions extending through a correspondingone of the two openings.

In some embodiments, the clip is locked onto the bar in response to theinner sleeve partially encircling the bar and the outer sleeve lockingonto the inner sleeve.

In another aspect, provided is a self-locking mechanism for coupling aportable computing device to a shopping cart handle, comprising: amobile device cradle for coupling with the portable computing device; aninner sleeve, wherein the inner sleeve partially encircles the bar; andan outer sleeve coupled to the inner sleeve, wherein the outer sleevepartially encircles the inner sleeve, and wherein the outer sleevecouples the inner sleeve and the clip to the bar, wherein one of theinner sleeve and the outer sleeve includes a protrusion that mates witha groove in the other of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve forlocking the inner sleeve in the outer sleeve, the outer sleeve includinga interlock slide that mates with the mobile device cradle.

In some embodiments, the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve both have aC-shaped cross-section.

In some embodiments, the interlock slide couples to a groove on thedevice to couple the device to the clip.

In some embodiments, the inner sleeve further comprises two ridgeprotrusions, one on either side of the inner sleeve outer surface.

In some embodiments, the outer sleeve comprises two openings, one eachthrough either side of the outer sleeve.

In some embodiments, the outer sleeve locks onto the inner sleeve inresponse to the outer sleeve partially encircling the inner sleeve andeach one of the two ridge protrusions extending through a correspondingone of the two openings.

In some embodiments, the clip is locked onto the bar in response to theinner sleeve partially encircling the bar and the outer sleeve lockingonto the inner sleeve.

In another aspect, provided is a method for coupling a portablecomputing device to a shopping cart handle, comprising: assembling aself-locking clip mechanism about the shopping cart handle, theself-locking clip mechanism comprising an inner sleeve, wherein theinner sleeve partially encircles the bar; and an outer sleeve coupled tothe inner sleeve; coupling a mobile device cradle to the self-lockingclip mechanism; and inserting the portable computing device in thecradle.

In another aspect, a mobile device holder for a shopping cart, themobile device holder comprises a top plate that receives a mobilecomputing device; a bottom plate coupled to the top plate; a pair ofsidewalls moveably coupled to the bottom plate, wherein the mobilecomputing device is captured between the pair of sidewalls; and a handlecoupler coupled to the bottom plate. The handle coupler comprises: afirst sleeve, wherein the first sleeve is coupled to the bottom plate,and wherein the first sleeve couples the bottom plate to the handle; anda second sleeve which removeably fits over the first sleeve; wherein themobile device holder is coupled to the handle in response to the secondsleeve extending over the first sleeve after the first sleeve is coupledto the handle.

In some embodiments, the first sleeve has a locking protrusion thatlocks to a locking slot in the second sleeve.

In some embodiments, the first sleeve has a first opening extending alength of the first sleeve, and wherein the first sleeve couples to thehandle by passing the handle through the first opening, and wherein thefirst opening opposes a first back side of the first sleeve.

In some embodiments, the second sleeve has a second opening extending alength of the second sleeve, wherein the second opening opposes a secondback side of the second sleeve, and wherein the second sleeve couples tothe first sleeve by passing the first sleeve through the second openingsuch that the second opening is adjacent the first back side and thefirst opening is adjacent the second back side.

In some embodiments, the first sleeve comprise a first sleeve dovetailtongue coupled to the first back side; the bottom plate comprises afirst sleeve dovetail groove in a bottom surface of the bottom plate;and the first sleeve couples to the bottom plate by coupling the firstsleeve dovetail tongue to the first sleeve dovetail groove.

In some embodiments, the shopping cart mobile device holder furthercomprises a charging pad encased in the top plate.

In some embodiments, the top plate is communicatively coupled to themobile computing device.

In some embodiments, the bottom plate comprises a rectangular plate ofrigid material; a first slide channel coupled to a top edge of therectangular plate; and a second slide channel coupled to a bottom edgeof the rectangular plate.

In some embodiments, the shopping cart mobile device holder furthercomprises a pinion coupled to the bottom plate, and the first sidewallcomprises a first side plate; and a first gear bar rack extending fromthe first side plate; wherein the first gear bar rack has a firstplurality of gears, and wherein the first gear bar rack slidinglycouples to the first slide channel, and wherein the first plurality ofgears mechanically engage the pinion; and wherein the first gear barrack moves the first side plate towards and away from a first side edgeof the bottom plate in response to rotation of the pinion.

In some embodiments, the second sidewall comprises: a second side plate;and a second gear bar rack extending from the second side plate; whereinthe second gear bar rack has a second plurality of gears, and whereinthe second gear bar rack slidingly couples to the second slide channel,and wherein the second plurality of gears mechanically engage thepinion; and wherein the second gear bar rack moves the second side platetowards and away from a second side edge of the bottom plate in responseto rotation of the pinion.

In some embodiments, the first sidewall comprises a first side plate;and a first coupler plate extending from the first side plate; whereinthe first coupler plate couples to the bottom plate by slidinglyengaging the first and the second slide channel.

In some embodiments, the top plate comprises four top plate dovetailtongues, and wherein the bottom plate comprises four bottom platedovetail grooves, and wherein the top plate dovetail tongues couple tothe bottom plate dovetail grooves.

In another aspect, a method of coupling a mobile computing device to ashopping cart comprises connecting a top plate to a bottom plate,wherein the bottom plate comprises a first and a second slide channel;slidingly coupling a first sidewall to the bottom plate; slidinglycoupling a second sidewall to the bottom plate; coupling a first sleeveto the bottom plate; coupling the first sleeve to a handle of theshopping cart; coupling a second sleeve over the first sleeve to lockthe first sleeve to the handle; and capturing the mobile computingdevice between the first and the second sidewall.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises communicativelycoupling the top plate to the mobile computing device.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises coupling a mobilecomputing device charger to the top plate.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises coupling electricalpower to the top plate.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises electrically couplinga scanner to the top plate.

In some embodiments, coupling the first sidewall to the bottom platecomprises: coupling a pinion to the bottom plate; coupling a gear barrack to a side plate to form the first sidewall; and extending the gearbar rack into the first slide channel such that the gear bar rackengages the pinion, and such that the side plate moves towards and awayfrom the bottom plate in response to rotation of the pinion.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises coupling a couplerplate to a side plate to form the first sidewall.

In some embodiments, slidingly coupling the first sidewall to the bottomplate comprises slidingly coupling the coupler plate into the first andthe second slide channel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Advantages of examples of the present inventive concepts may be betterunderstood by referring to the following description in conjunction withthe accompanying drawings, in which like numerals indicate likestructural elements and features in various figures. The drawings arenot necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed uponillustrating the principles of features and implementations.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a self-locking clip mechanism, inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the self-locking clip mechanism of FIG. 1

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of inner and outer clip components of theself-locking clip mechanism of FIGS. 1 and 2, separated from each other.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a mobile device holder comprising theself-locking clip mechanism of FIGS. 1-3 coupled to a mobile devicecradle, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the mobile device holder of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a self-locking clip mechanism securing aportable computing device and cradle to a shopping cart, in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method for coupling a portable computingdevice to a shopping cart handle, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of an application ofthe self-locking clip mechanism of FIGS. 1-6, in which a mobile deviceholder is coupled to a handle of a shopping cart and holding a mobilecomputing device;

FIG. 9 shows a side view cross-section of the mobile device holder andmobile computing device of FIG. 8 coupled to the handle of the shoppingcart;

FIG. 10 shows a simplified schematic diagram of a top plate of themobile device holder of FIG. 8, with the top plate electrically coupledto the mobile computing device, a scanner, a power source, and theshopping cart;

FIG. 11 shows a front perspective view of the mobile device holder ofFIG. 8;

FIG. 12 shows a rear perspective view of the mobile device holder ofFIG. 8;

FIG. 13 shows an exploded view of the mobile device holder of FIG. 8;

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of a mobiledevice holder coupled to a handle of a shopping cart;

FIG. 15 shows a side view of the mobile device holder of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 shows a front perspective view of the mobile device holder ofFIG. 14;

FIG. 17 shows a rear perspective view of the mobile device holder ofFIG. 14;

FIG. 18 shows an exploded view of the mobile device holder of FIG. 14;and

FIG. 19 illustrates a method of coupling a mobile computing device to ashopping cart.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In some cases, customers bring their own portable computing device,e.g., a smartphone, computing tablet, or the like, into a retail storefor use while shopping. In other cases, portable computing devices, ormobile devices, are distributed by the retail store for customers to usewhile in the store. For example, portable scanning devices are loaned tocustomers in some stores so that the customers can scan andelectronically pay for their purchases while they shop.

As discussed herein, embodiments of the present inventive conceptsrelate to holders for portable computing devices, and more specificallyto a self-locking clip mechanism that secures a portable computingdevice cradle to a shopping cart. A portable computing device such as apersonal smartphone or store-provided scanning device may in turn beremovably coupled to the cradle. Mobile devices can be any type ofportable computing device such as, but not limited to, portablescanners, smart phones, computing tablets or pads, portable computers,global positioning system devices, portable digital assistants, or anyother type of portable computing device, and can perform a number ofcomputing functions related to a shopping application such as point ofsale (POS) functions.

Along these lines, each shopper usually carries at least one mobiledevice. The mobile devices are often an integral part of the shoppingexperience, being used to find items in a store, scan items to bepurchased and electronically complete the purchase. But it is difficultto both push the shopping cart and control the mobile device. Inaddition, it is desirable to have the mobile device be positioned closeto the shopper as the shopper shops.

Described herein is a self-locking clip mechanism that includes an outerclip component, also referred to as an outer sleeve, which removablyinterlocks with an inner clip component, also referred to as an innersleeve, to collectively form a circular, oval, or other relevant shapedinterior that surrounds a cross-sectional region of a shopping carthandle or other tubular element and applies a force against the shoppingcart element so as to not move, e.g., rotate about the shopping carthandle. One of the clip components has an interlock slide or the likethat is configured to mate and lock with a cradle of a portablecomputing device. Thus, the cradle can be firmly attached to theshopping cart by the self-locking mechanism so that portable computingdevices can be repeatably inserted into the cradle for use by a customerin a hands-free manner, for example, allowing the customer to push theshopping cart while also viewing a display on the computing deviceattached to the cradle on the shopping cart.

Also described herein are embodiments of the self-locking clip mechanismwhich in some applications may be part of a mobile device holder thatholds a mobile device, and couples the mobile device to a handle of ashopping cart or shopping basket. When the mobile device holder iscoupled to the shopping cart handle, it holds and positions a mobiledevice so it is close and convenient for us to the customer. The mobiledevice holder also includes a charger to charge the mobile device whileit is held by the mobile device holder. The mobile device holder can beelectrically coupled to both the shopping cart and the mobile device.Power can be supplied to the mobile device holder, and the mobiledevice, from the shopping cart or another power supply. A scanner forscanning bar codes can be coupled to the mobile device holder to providebar code inputs to the mobile device. The mobile device holder caninclude a ‘help’ button that the customer can use to summon help fromthe retail store if needed. The mobile device holder provides aconvenient dock for mobile devices of all types, keeps the devicescharged, and provides a convenient means for holding a mobile device foruse during the shopping trip.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a self-locking clip mechanism 10, inaccordance with some embodiments. In preferred embodiments, theself-locking clip mechanism 10 is constructed and arranged to secure amobile phone cradle to a shopping cart.

The self-locking clip mechanism 10 includes an inner clip component 24,also referred to in some embodiments as a first sleeve, and an outerclip component 22, also referred to in some embodiments as a secondsleeve, that are constructed and arranged to removably interlock witheach other.

Each of the clip components 22, 24 are incomplete annular cylinders, asbest seen in FIGS. 1-4. An inner surface of the outer clip component 22and an inner clip component 24 each has an arc or curve shape, e.g., acircular, oval, C-shape, semi-circle, or horseshoe shaped interior, forsecuring about a tubular structure, such as a handlebar or other tubularelement of a shopping cart or the like (e.g., shown in FIG. 5). Inparticular, the inner surface has a curvature dimensioned to match anouter curvature of the handlebar or other tubular element. The couplingformed by the outer clip component 22 and an inner clip component 24,when secured about the handlebar, operates to induce a radially inwardforce on the inner surface of the self-locking clip mechanism 10. Insome embodiments, interiors of the outer clip component 22 and an innerclip component 24 can be curved for positioning about a handlebar orother tubular structure, and the exteriors of the outer clip component22 and an inner clip component 24 can be of a different shape, forexample, linear or curved.

Each of the outer clip component 22 and an inner clip component 24 maybe formed of metal, plastic, or other rigid continuous one-piecematerial having the strength, durability, and other characteristicssufficient for securing a portable computing device to the tubularstructure via a mobile device cradle that is coupled to one of the outerclip component 22 and an inner clip component 24. For example, the outerclip component 22 and an inner clip component 24 may be formed ofplastic or other material that provides rigidity and some elasticity sothat the ends of the inner clip component 24 can expand to widen anopening 34 to fit around a tubular object such as a shopping carthandlebar, and for the outer clip component 22 to expand to widen anopening 33 to fit around the inner clip component 24. Inner clip opening34 extends a length of inner clip 24. Similarly, outer clip opening 33extends along a length of outer clip 22.

In embodiments, the inner clip component 24 includes a base protrusion32 at an opposite side of the inner clip component 24 as the opening 34.The base protrusion 32 is constructed and arranged to have a wider orthicker region then the ends of the clip and to extend through theopening 33 in the outer clip component 22 so that the ends of the outerclip component 22, i.e., ends on either side of the outer clip opening33, do not interfere with an interlock slide 25 or otherwise prohibitthe mobile device cradle from being coupled to the interlock slide 25.In some embodiments, the interlock slide 25 has a dovetailconfiguration, referred to as a dovetail tongue or the like.

The outer clip component 22 and inner clip component 24 may beinterlocked with each other to form a 360 degree circumference fromtheir combined interiors positioned about the tubular handlebar or thelike. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the inner clipcomponent 24, for example, end portions, are positioned inside the outerclip component 22. During operation, the inner clip component 24 isclipped to a handlebar 118 (see FIG. 6) so that the interior region ofthe inner clip component 24 directly abuts and at least partiallyencircles the handlebar 118. Although a handlebar 118 is shown, themobile device holder 110A can be coupled to any rod-shaped handle orrail, such as the handle of a flatbed-type cart or a rail, for example,but not by way of limitation.

The outer surface of the inner clip component 24 directly abuts an innersurface of the outer clip component 22, and may abut or otherwise applya force to a remaining portion of the handlebar 118 not otherwisesurrounded by the inner clip component 24. At least a portion of theinterior of the inner clip component 24 may include a padding or foamliner or the like to provide an improved grip about the shopping carthandlebar 118.

The outer clip component 22 and inner clip component 24 may jointogether securely by at least one locking slot 23, or hole, window,groove or the like, in the outer clip component 22 that is constructedand arranged to mate with a locking protrusion 26 extending from asurface of the inner clip component 24. The width, diameter,circumference, shape, or other feature of the locking slot 23 can vary,depending on the width, diameter, circumference, shape, or other featureof the locking protrusion 26. In doing so, the outer clip component 22and inner clip component 24 apply a force directly on the handlebar.Preferably, the outer clip component 22 has two locking slots 23arranged 180 degrees from each other. Each locking slot 23 isdimensioned to receive one of two protrusions 26 extending from theinner clip component. The two protrusions 26 may also extend 180 degreesfrom each other to align with and be received by a corresponding lockingslot 23. In some embodiments, the outer clip component 22 has theprotrusions 26 that extend from the interior of the outer clip component22 (distinguished from protrusions 26 extending from the exterior of theinner clip component 24 as described in abovementioned embodiments) tomate with locking slots 23 in the inner clip component 24. In someembodiments, a back region of the clip 10 may include one or moresupport brackets, for example, a groove or the like at the back of theclip that functions as a bracket for supporting the holder and the cliptogether.

A top region of the inner clip component 24 includes an interlock slide25 that is constructed and arranged to mate with a bottom of a mobiledevice cradle 50, for example, shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 to collectivelyform a mobile device holder 110. In some embodiments, the interlockslide 25 extends from the outer surface of the inner clip component 24along a longitudinal direction of the inner clip component 24, as shown.In some embodiments, the interlock slide 25 has a taper, or morespecifically, each tapered size of the projection of the interlock slide25 tapers from an outermost surface of the slide 25 to a region wherethe slide 25 extends from the outer surface of the inner clip component24. Mating surfaces of the tapered interlock slide 25 and a groove 57 ofthe mobile device cradle 50 are joined together to form a couplinginterface. In some embodiments, the interlock slide 25 has a hole forreceiving a screw or the like extending through the cradle to furtherhold the cradle in place against the self-locking clip mechanism 10. Insome embodiments, the inner clip component 24 has a groove at its topsurface and the cradle 50 has the protrusion for mating with the groovein the inner clip component 24.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the mobile device cradle 50 may include butnot be limited to a top plate 51, first sidewall 52, second sidewall 53,a bottom plate 54, a cradle connector 55, and a coupling element 56.

When assembled as shown in FIG. 4, the top plate 51, first sidewall 52,second sidewall 53, a bottom plate 54, cradle connector 55, and couplingelement 56 form the cradle 50 in which a portable computing device canbe inserted and secured against a shopping cart handlebar 118 or relatedtubular structure. A bottom surface of the bottom plate 54 includes atleast one groove 57 or the like for coupling with the interlock slide 25of the self-locking clip mechanism 10. A top surface of the bottom plate54 may include a plurality of grooves 61 or the like for coupling withprotrusions 62 or the like extending from the top plate 51 to secure thetop plate 51 to the bottom plate 54.

The cradle connector 55 is positioned in the middle of the cradle 50,and supports the coupling element 56 in place. The cradle connector 55functions as a separator and locking bracket. The coupling element 56may be a pin formed of the same material as the bracket 55. The couplingelement 56 may be a pin, screw, bolt, or other attachment mechanism forsecurely coupling the bottom plate 54 of the cradle 50 to theself-locking clip mechanism 10. The pin 56 may hold a top section of thelocking clip in place. Coupling element 56 may extend from the bottomplate 54 of the holder to a section of the locking clip, for example,hole 31 in the top section of the locking clip. For example, thecoupling element 56 can be inserted in a hole 63 in the cradle bottomplate 54 that is aligned with a hole 31 in the interlock slide 25 of theself-locking mechanism 10 when the interlock slide 25 is inserted in thebottom plate groove 57. The coupling element 56 may provide areinforcement in ensuring that the self-locking mechanism 10 is securelycoupled to the mobile device cradle 50.

A feature of the self-locking clip mechanism 10 is that multiple screwsor other permanent fastening components are not required to secure theclip mechanism 10 to a shopping cart handlebar 118. Referring again toFIGS. 4 and 5, the inner clip component 24 is securely coupled to themobile device cradle 50 due to the coupling element 56. Thus, the outerclip component 22 may be separated from the inner clip component 24 byopening the outer clip component 22 to remove the outer clip opening 23from the inner clip protrusion 26, or vice versa. Here, the cradle 50and inner clip component 24 may be removed together from the handlebar118.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method 100 for coupling a mobile computingdevice 114 to a shopping cart handle 118, in accordance with someembodiments. In describing the method 100, reference is made to elementsof FIGS. 1-6.

At block 102, a self-locking clip mechanism 10 is assembled about ashopping cart handlebar or other tubular structure. In particular, thetwo halves of the self-locking clip mechanism 10, or more specifically,outer clip component 22 and inner clip component 24, are coupled to eachother about the handlebar 118 or the like, for example, shown in FIG. 6.In doing so, the interlock slide 25 is positioned at a top region of theself-locking clip mechanism 10 above the handlebar 118 so that aline-of-sight is formed between the interlock slide 25 and a shoppingcart user.

At block 104, the mobile device cradle 50 is assembled, for example,shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. In some embodiments, the mobile device cradle 50is molded or machined from a single stock, and therefore, little or noassembly is required.

At block 106, the self-locking clip mechanism 10 is coupled to thecradle 50, for example, shown in FIG. 5. In doing so, the outer clipcomponent 22 and inner clip component 24 apply a force, e.g., a radiallyinward force, directly on the handlebar 118.

In some embodiments, the foregoing steps 102-106 may be performed in adifferent order. For example, the cradle 50 may be assembled, then theinner clip protrusion 26 may be securely coupled to the cradle 50, thenthe inner clip component 24 can be positioned about the shopping carthandlebar 26 where the outer clip component 22 can be positioned aboutthe inner clip component 24 to secure the clip mechanism 10 to thehandlebar 118.

At block 108, a mobile computing device 114 is inserted in the cradle50. The mobile computing device 114 may be a personal or store-providedelectronic device such as a portable scanner, smartphone, computingtablet or pad, portable computer, global positioning system device,portable digital assistant, or any other type of portable device with acomputer processor. Mobile device holder 110 can also hold non-computingdevices such as a notepad or a voice recorder, or any other mobiledevice that can be held by mobile device holder 110.

FIG. 8 through FIG. 13 show another embodiment of a mobile device holder110A. In particular, FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of mobile deviceholder 110A coupled to a handle 118 of a shopping cart 112, FIG. 9 showsa side cross-sectional view of mobile device holder 110A and mobilecomputing device 114 coupled to handle 118, FIG. 10 shows a simplifiedschematic diagram of a top plate 130 of mobile device holder 110A, whichis electrically coupled to mobile computing device 114, a scanner 122,shopping cart 112, and a power source 124. FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 showsfront and rear perspective views of mobile device holder 110A,respectively, FIG. 13 shows an exploded view of mobile device holder110A. Elements of the mobile device holder 110A are the same as orsimilar to those described with respect to the mobile device holder 110of FIGS. 4-6 and such descriptions are not repeated for brevity.

Mobile device holder 110A can be used as a holder, a docking station, acharger, or a communications interface for a mobile computing device,such as mobile computing device 114 as shown in FIG. 8. Mobile deviceholder 110 is, in some embodiments, communicatively coupled to mobilecomputing device 114. Mobile device holder 110A is, in some embodiments,communicatively coupled to shopping cart 112. Shopping cart 112 can be asmart shopping cart with communication and power capability. Mobiledevice holder 110A can charge mobile computing device 114, and can be aninterface between mobile computing device 114 and other shoppingaccessories such as a scanner for capturing bar code data, for example,other input/output devices, or other electronic accessories.

In some embodiments, the mobile device holder 110A includes a top plate130, a bottom plate 140, and a pair of sidewalls 150 and 160. Top plate130 and bottom plate 140 are coupled together. Mobile computing device114 sets on top plate 130 in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1. Topplate 130, in this embodiment, contains the electronic components ofmobile device holder 110, as shown but this is not meant to be limiting.In some embodiments, bottom plate 140 contains electronic devices also.Mobile computing device 114 is captured between sidewalls 150 and 160,as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. Sidewalls 150 and 160 slide into and out ofbottom plate 140 to capture mobile computing device 114 betweensidewalls 150 and 160.

Mobile device holder 110A also includes a self-locking clip mechanism 10constructed and arranged as part of a handle coupler, which is coupledto bottom plate 140. Handle coupler 10 couples mobile device holder 110Ato handle 118 of shopping cart 112, as shown in cross-sectional view inFIG. 9. The inner clip component or first sleeve 24 is coupled to handle118 by putting handle 118 through inner clip opening 34 so that firstsleeve 24 partially encircles handle 118. Outer clip component or secondsleeve 22 has an opening 33. Outer clip opening 33 extends a length ofsecond sleeve 22, shown in FIG.13. Second sleeve 22 couples to firstsleeve 24 by passing first sleeve 24 through opening 33 such that secondsleeve 22 partially encircles first sleeve 24. First sleeve 24 has abase protrusion 32, also referred to as a back side which opposes innerclip opening 34. Second sleeve 22 has a back side which opposes outerclip opening 33. When self-locking clip mechanism 10 is coupled tohandle 118, inner clip opening 34 is adjacent outer sleeve back side,and outer clip opening 33 is adjacent inner sleeve back side 32, as seenin FIG. 9.

Second sleeve 22 locks to first sleeve 24 using a pair of lockingprotrusions 26 and a corresponding pair of locking slots 23. Firstsleeve 24 includes a pair of locking protrusions 26. Locking protrusions26 are each a linear elongate member coupled to the outer surface offirst sleeve 24, one each on either side of first sleeve 24 betweenopening 34 and outer sleeve back side. First sleeve 24 includes twolocking protrusions 26 in this embodiment, but one or more than twolocking protrusions 26 may be used.

Second sleeve 22 includes two locking slots 23 in this embodiment, butone or more than two may be used. Locking slots 23 are each an elongateslot opening through second sleeve 22, positioned and shaped to receivelocking protrusions 26. When second sleeve 22 is coupled over firstsleeve 24 and handle 118, each locking protrusion 26 extends through acorresponding locking slot 23 to lock second sleeve 22 to first sleeve24, which also locks handle coupler 10 to handle 118.

First sleeve 24 couples to bottom plate 140 to couple bottom plate 140.First sleeve 24 is coupled to bottom plate 140 using a dovetail tongue25 extending from the base protrusion 32 of the first sleeve 24. Bottomplate 140 has a dovetail groove 141 in a bottom surface 142 of bottomplate 140, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 12. First sleeve 32 of handle coupleris coupled to bottom plate 140 by sliding dovetail tongue 25 intodovetail groove 141.

Top plate 130 couples to bottom plate 140, and mobile computing device114 sets on top plate 130. Once mobile computing device 114 is settingon top plate 130, first and second side panels 150 and 160 are movedtowards mobile computing device 114 to hold mobile computing device 114on top plate 130.

Referring to FIG. 10, top plate 130 includes a number of electroniccomponents. FIG. 10 shows a simplified schematic of top plate 130 andsome of the electronic components which are included in top plate 130 inthis embodiment. Top plate 130 in this embodiment includes a chargingpad 116. Charging pad 116 is a mobile computing device charger that iselectrically coupled to and encased in, top plate 130, but this is notmeant to be limiting. In some embodiments, charging pad 116 sets on topof top plate 130, between top plate 130 and mobile computing device 114.In some embodiments, charging pad 116 is exterior to top plate 130, andis electrically coupled to top plate 130. Charging pad 116 can be usedto charge mobile computing device 114. Charging pad 116 is electricallycoupled to mobile computing device 114, either wirelessly or usingwires. Charging pad 116 is electrically coupled to mobile computingdevice 114 using electrical connection 129, which can be a wired or awireless connection. Connection 129, in this embodiment, conducts powerfrom charging pad 116 to mobile computing device 114, but this is notmean to be limiting. In some embodiments, connection 129 conductscommunication between charging pad 116 and mobile computing device 114.Connection 129, in this embodiment, uses an electrical connector 128 toconduct power and/or communications into and out of top plate 130.Charging pad 116 keeps mobile computing device 114 charged when mobilecomputing device 114 is docked in mobile device holder 110A. In someembodiments, charging devices other than charging pad 116 are used withmobile device holder 110A.

Top plate 130 is communicatively coupled to mobile computing device 114using connection 129. Top plate 130 includes an electronic controlmodule 120 which is communicatively coupled to mobile computing device114 using connection 129. Electronic control module 120 is a device thatcontrols power into and out of top plate 130, and controlscommunications between top plate 130 and mobile computing device 114, apower source 124, shopping cart 112, which in this embodiment is a smartshopping cart 112, and a scanner 122. Electronic control module 120 alsocontrols communication between top plate 130 and a server of the retailstore. Electronic control module 120 can interface between mobilecomputing device 114 and a purchase utility of the retail store, ifdesired. In some embodiments, electronic control module 120 communicateswith an in-store communication system in the retail store. Electroniccontrol module 120 can provide many other types of communication betweentop plate 130, mobile device holder 110A, the retail store, mobilecomputing device 114, and other devices that can be used in conjunctionwith mobile device holder 110A or can communicate with mobile deviceholder 110A.

Top plate 130 obtains power, in this embodiment, from power source 124through an electrical connector 127. Power source 124 provideselectrical power to top plate 130, and, in some embodiments, to mobilecomputing device 114 through top plate 130. Power source 124 can be apart of or separate from shopping cart 112. In some embodiments, powersource 124 obtains power when shopping cart 112 wheels are rolled alongthe ground. In some embodiments, power source 124 is a battery or otherpower supply. Power source 124 can be any type of power generator orpower storage device that can supply power to top plate 130 or mobilecomputing device 114 or any part of mobile device holder 110A.

Shopping cart 112 communicates with top plate 130 and mobile deviceholder 110A using communication 126, which, in this embodiment, isconducted through an electrical connector 132. In this embodiment, thecommunication 126 is a wired communication, but this is not meant to belimiting. In some embodiments, the communication 126 is wireless.

Top plate 130 also includes a communication port 133. Communication port133 is used to conduct communication 125 into and out of top plate 130.In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, communication port 133 is used toelectrically and communicatively couple top plate 130 and electroniccontrol module 120 to a scanner 122, but this is not meant to belimiting. Communication port 133 can be used to communicatively couplemany different devices to top plate 130 and electronic control module120.

Scanner 122 is used, in this embodiment, so that a customer using mobiledevice holder 110 can scan product bar codes using scanner 122, to enterthe products into electronic control 120 or mobile computing device 114for purchase. Many other types of input/output devices can becommunicatively coupled to top plate 130 using communication port 133,including, but not limited to, cameras, displays, pen devices, orkeyboards.

Top plate 130, in this embodiment also has a help button 108, see FIG.10 through FIG. 13. Help button 108 is used to summon assistance in theretail store. Help button 108 is a pushbutton, in this embodiment. Whenhelp button 108 is activated, a help signal is sent to a retail storeserver or other communication mechanism that informs the retail storethat the user of mobile device holder 110A is requesting assistance. Theretail store can respond by sending assistance. In some embodiments,mobile device holder 110A includes a global positioning system (GPS)device which helps the retail store find the customer in the retailstore.

Bottom plate 140 can be coupled to top plate 130 in many different ways.In this embodiment, bottom plate 140 is coupled to top plate 130 usingfour top plate dovetail tongues 131 (only two visible in the figures)and a corresponding four bottom plate dovetail grooves 148 (FIG. 6).Each dovetail tongue 131 slides into a corresponding dovetail groove 148to couple top plate 130 to bottom plate 140. Top plate dovetail tongues131 couple to bottom plate dovetail grooves 148 to couple top plate 130to bottom plate 140. It is to be understood that many other couplingmeans can be used to couple top plate 130 to bottom plate 140.

Pair of sidewalls 150 and 160 are slidingly coupled to bottom plate 140.Pair of sidewalls 150 and 160 are slidingly coupled to bottom plate 140so that pair of sidewalls 150 and 160 can capture mobile computingdevice 114 between pair of sidewalls 150 and 160.

Bottom plate 140 is formed of a rectangular plate of rigid material 143(FIG. 13), with a first and a second slide channel 144 and 145 coupledto plate of rigid material 143. Rectangular plate 143 has a top surface149 and a bottom surface 142. Rectangular plate 143 has a top edge 146and a bottom edge 147. First slide channel 144 is coupled to top edge146 and receives first and second sidewalls 150 and 160. Second slidechannel 145 is coupled to bottom edge 147 and receives first and secondsidewalls 150 and 160. A slide channel, in this embodiment, is astructure that is generally U-shaped to create a channel for sidewalls150 and 160 to slide along.

First sidewall 150 includes a first side plate 151 and a first couplerplate 152. First side plate 151, in this embodiment, is a generallyrectangular shaped plate of rigid material that presses against mobilecomputing device 114 to hold mobile computing device 114 in mobiledevice holder 110A. First coupler plate 152 is a generally rectangularshaped plate of rigid material that extends from first side plate 151 toform a generally L-shaped first sidewall 150. In this embodiment, firstcoupler plate 152 extends from first side plate 151 in a directionperpendicular to first side plate 151. First sidewall 150 is coupled tobottom plate 140 by slidingly coupling first coupler plate 152 into bothfirst and second slide channels 144 and 145, as shown in the figures.First and second slide channels 144 and 145 hold first coupler plate 152between first and second slide channels 144 and 145, while allowingfirst coupler plate 152 to slide into and out of first and second slidechannels 144 and 145 in a direction 192 towards and away from bottomplate 140. First coupler plate 152 includes a first trough 154, whichreceives a first coupler plate guide 155 on bottom plate 140. Firstcoupler plate guide 155 slides into and out of first trough 154 to helpfirst coupler plate 152 slide in direction 192 into and out of first andsecond slide channels 144 and 145. Once top plate 130 is coupled tobottom plate 140, first coupler plate 152 slides in first and secondslide channels 144 and 145 to move first slide plate 151 in direction192 towards and away from top plate first side edge 184. Thus, firstcoupler plate 152 slidingly engages first and second slide channels 144and 145 so that first side plate 151 can move in direction 192 towardsand away from top plate 130 and bottom plate 140, to capture mobilecomputing device 114 between first and second sidewalls 150 and 160.

Second sidewall 160 includes a second side plate 161 and a secondcoupler plate 162. Second side plate 161, in this embodiment, is agenerally rectangular shaped plate of rigid material that pressesagainst mobile computing device 114 to hold mobile computing device 114in mobile device holder 110A. Second coupler plate 162 is a generallyrectangular shaped plate of rigid material that extends from second sideplate 161 to form a generally L-shaped second sidewall 160. In thisembodiment, second coupler plate 162 extends from second side plate 161in a direction perpendicular to second side plate 161. Second sidewall160 is coupled to bottom plate 140 by slidingly coupling second couplerplate 162 into both first and second slide channels 144 and 145, asshown in the figures. First and second slide channels 144 and 145 holdsecond coupler plate 162 between first and second slide channels 144 and145, while allowing first coupler plate 162 to slide into and out offirst and second slide channels 144 and 145 in a direction 193 towardsand away from bottom plate 140. Second coupler plate 162 includes asecond trough 164, which receives a second coupler plate guide 165 onbottom plate 140. Second coupler plate guide 165 slides into and out offirst trough 164 to help second coupler plate 162 slide into and out offirst and second slide channels 144 and 145. Once top plate 130 iscoupled to bottom plate 140, second coupler plate 162 slides in firstand second slide channels 144 and 145 in direction 193 to move secondside plate 161 towards and away from top plate second side edge 185.Thus, second coupler plate 162 slidingly engages first and second slidechannels 144 and 145 to move second side plate 161 towards and away fromtop plate 130 and bottom plate 140 in direction 193, to capture mobilecomputing device 114 between first and second sidewalls 150 and 160.

Mobile device holder 110A holds mobile computing device 114, and couplesto a shopping cart 112 so that mobile computing device 114, or any othermobile device, is held in a convenient position for a shopper to useboth shopping cart 112 and mobile computing device 114. Mobile deviceholder 110A holds mobile computing device 114 in a convenient positionfor use, and can also charge mobile computing device 114 and communicatewith mobile computing device 114, shopping cart 112, in-storecommunications in the retail store, and other electronic accessories.

FIGS. 14 through FIG. 18 show an embodiment of a mobile device holder210 for a shopping cart. Mobile device holder 210 is similar to mobiledevice holder 110 of FIGS. 1-7 and mobile device holder 110A of FIGS.8-13, in particular, the self-locking clip mechanism 10, and is used forthe same purpose. Mobile device holder 210 is used to hold a mobiledevice such as mobile computing device 114 or other mobile device for ashopper while the shopper is shopping. Mobile device holder 210 issimilar to mobile device holder 10 except that mobile device holder 210uses a rack and pinion type mechanism, as explained herein, to move thefirst and second sidewalls in and out and capture the mobile device 114between the sidewalls.

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of mobile device holder 210 coupled tohandle 118 of shopping cart 112. Mobile device holder 210 is not holdingmobile computing device 114 in FIG. 14, but mobile device holder 210 isused to hold mobile computing device 114 or another mobile device.Mobile computing device 114 is left out of FIG. 7 to show the rack andpinion details of mobile device holder 210.

Mobile device holder 210 for a shopping cart is shown in FIG. 14 coupledto handle 118 of shopping cart 112. Mobile device holder 210 can coupleto any rod-shaped handle or rail, such as the handle of a flatbed-typecart or a rail extending from a shopping cart, for example, but not byway of limitation.

Mobile device holder 210 can be used as a holder, a docking station, acharger, or a communications interface for a mobile computing device114. Mobile device holder 210 is, in some embodiments, communicativelycoupled to mobile computing device 114. Mobile device holder 210 is, insome embodiments, communicatively coupled to shopping cart 112. Shoppingcart 112 can be a smart shopping cart with communication and powercapability. Mobile device holder 210 can charge mobile computing device114, and can be an interface between mobile computing device 114 andother shopping accessories such as a scanner for capturing bar codedata, for example, or other electronic accessories.

Mobile device holder 210 can hold many different types of mobiledevices, computing and non-computing. Mobile computing device 114 canhold any type of mobile device, such as a smart phone, a tabletcomputing device, a scanner, a camera, a calculator, a music or videodevice, a mobile computer, a cellular telephone, or any other type ofdevice with a computer processor. Mobile device holder 210 can also holdnon-computing devices such as a notepad or a voice recorder, or anyother mobile device that can be held by mobile device holder 210.

Referring to FIG. 15 through FIG. 18, mobile device holder 210 includesa top plate 230, a bottom plate 240, and a pair of sidewalls 250 and260. Top plate 230 and bottom plate 240 are coupled together. Top plate230 receives a mobile computing device 114. Top plate 230, in thisembodiment, contains the electronic device and components of mobiledevice holder 210. The electronic components of mobile device holder 210can be similar to the electronic components of mobile device holder 110,110A as explained above. In some embodiments, bottom plate 240 containselectronic devices also. Sidewalls 250 and 260 slide into and out ofbottom plate 240 to capture the mobile device between sidewalls 250 and260.

Mobile device holder 210 also includes a handle coupler 270 coupled tobottom plate 240. Handle coupler 270 couples mobile device holder 210 tohandle 118 of shopping cart 112. Handle coupler 270 includes a firstsleeve 271 that couples to handle 118 or other round rod or bar. Firstsleeve 271 is an incomplete annular cylinder. An incomplete annularcylinder is an annular cylinder that is not a complete circle incross-section. First sleeve 271 has a C-shaped cross-section.

First sleeve 271 has a first opening 275. Handle coupler 270 and firstsleeve 271 are coupled to handle 118 by passing handle 118 through firstopening 275 so that first sleeve 271 partially encircles handle 118.

First sleeve 271 couples to bottom plate 240 to couple handle coupler270 to bottom plate 240. First sleeve 271 is coupled to bottom plate 240using screws in this embodiment, but any coupling means can be used tocouple first sleeve 271 to bottom plate 240. In some embodiments, mobiledevice holder 210 uses a handle coupler 10 instead of handle coupler270.

Top plate 230 couples to bottom plate 240, and a mobile computingdevice, such as mobile computing device 114, for example, sets on topplate 230, as shown with mobile device holder 110, 110A above. Once amobile computing device is setting on top plate 230, first and secondside panels 250 and 260 hold the mobile computing device on top plate230.

Top plate 230 or bottom plate 240 can include any of the electronicsshown and described in FIG. 3 for top plate 130. In some embodiments,top plate 230 includes the same electronic components as shown in FIG.10. In some embodiments, top plate 230 includes other electroniccomponents. In some embodiments, bottom plate 240 includes electroniccomponents. Mobile device holder 210 can be electrically and/orcommunicatively coupled to the mobile device, shopping cart 112, ascanner, or other input/output devices. Top plate 230 in this embodimentincludes a charging pad to charge the mobile computing device, but thisis not meant to be limiting. In some embodiments, a charging pad willset on top of top plate 230, between top plate 230 and the mobilecomputing device. The charging pad keeps the mobile computing deviceheld by mobile device holder 210 charged. In some embodiments, chargingdevices other than a charging pad are used with mobile device holder210.

Top plate 230 can obtain power from a power source or from a shoppingcart such as shopping cart 112. Top plate 230 can include one or moreconnection or communication ports to communicate with mobile devices,input/output devices, or other electronic components. In someembodiments, top plate 230 communicatively couples to a scanner so thata customer using mobile device holder 210 can scan product bar codesusing the scanner. Many other types of input/output devices can becommunicatively coupled to top plate 230 using a communication port intop plate 230 including, but not limited to, cameras, displays, pendevices, or keyboards.

Top plate 230, in this embodiment, has a help button 208. Help button208 is used to summon assistance in the retail store. Help button 208 isa pushbutton, in this embodiment. When help button 208 is activated, ahelp signal is sent to a retail store server, in-store communication, orother communication mechanism that informs the retail store that theuser of mobile device holder 210 is requesting assistance. The retailstore can respond by sending assistance. In some embodiments, mobiledevice holder 210 includes a global positioning system (GPS) devicewhich helps the retail store find the customer in the retail store.

Bottom plate 240 is coupled to top plate 230, using screws or othercoupling devices. Bottom plate 240 can be coupled to top plate 230 inmany different ways. In some embodiments, bottom plate 240 is coupled totop plate 230 using dovetail grooves and dovetail tongues as shown anddescribed for top plate 130 and bottom plate 140. It is to be understoodthat many different coupling means can be used to couple top plate 230to bottom plate 240.

Mobile device holder 210 includes a pair of sidewalls that includesfirst sidewall 250 and second sidewall 260. Pair of sidewalls 250 and260 are slidingly coupled to bottom plate 240. Pair of sidewalls 250 and260 are slidingly coupled to bottom plate 240 so that pair of sidewalls250 and 260 can capture a mobile computing device between pair ofsidewalls 250 and 260.

Bottom plate 240 is formed of a rectangular plate 243 of rigid material(FIG. 11), with a first and a second slide channel 244 and 245 coupledto plate of rigid material 243. Rectangular plate 243 has a top surface249 and a bottom surface 242. Rectangular plate 243 has a top edge 246and a bottom edge 247. First slide channel 244 is coupled to top edge246 and receives first sidewall 250. Second slide channel 245 is coupledto bottom edge 247 and receives second sidewall 260. A slide channel isa structure that is U-shaped to create a channel for sidewalls 250 and260 to slide along.

First and second sidewalls 250 and 260 slidingly couple to bottom plate240 to capture a mobile computing device between first sidewall 250 andsecond sidewall 260.

First sidewall 250 includes a first side plate 251 and a first gear barrack 253 extending from first side plate 251. First side plate 251, inthis embodiment, is a generally rectangular shaped plate of rigidmaterial that presses against a mobile computing device to hold themobile computing device in mobile device holder 210. First gear bar rack253 is a linear elongate bar with a first plurality of gears 255arranged along first gear bar rack 253, as shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11.First gear bar rack 253 extends from first side plate 251 in a directionperpendicular to first side plate 251. First gear bar rack 253 slidinglycouples to first slide channel 244 such that first gear bar rack 253moves in a direction 292 towards and away from bottom plate 240.

Mobile device holder 210 includes a pinion 290 coupled to bottom plate240, as shown in FIG. 18. Pinion 290 is coupled to bottom plate 240 suchthat pinion 290 rotates. A pinion is a rotary set of gears and is used,in this embodiment, to convert rotary motion to linear motion, or viceversa. In this embodiment, pinion 290 converts the rotary motion ofpinion 290 into the linear motion of first and second sidewalls 250 and260.

First gear bar rack 253 slidingly couples to first slide channel 244such that first plurality of gears 255 engage with pinion 290. Firstplurality of gears 255 engaging with pinion 290 means that sliding firstgear bar rack 253 into and out of first slide channel 244 causes pinion290 to rotate. And, rotation of pinion 290 causes first gear bar rack253 to slide into or out of first slide channel 244, depending on thedirection of rotation. Rotation of pinion 290 causes first gear bar rack253 and first side plate 251 to move in direction 292 towards or awayfrom a first side edge 284 of bottom plate 240, depending on thedirection of rotation of pinion 290.

Second sidewall 260 includes a second side plate 261 and a second gearbar rack 263 extending from second side plate 261. Second side plate261, in this embodiment, is a generally rectangular shaped plate ofrigid material that presses against a mobile computing device to holdthe mobile computing device in mobile device holder 210. Second gear barrack 263 is a linear elongate bar with a second plurality of gears 265arranged along second gear bar rack 263. Second gear bar rack 263extends from second side plate 261 in a direction perpendicular tosecond side plate 261. Second gear bar rack 263 slidingly couples tosecond slide channel 245 such that second gear bar rack 263 moves in adirection 293 towards and away from bottom plate 240. Second gear barrack 263 slidingly couples to second slide channel 245 such that secondplurality of gears 265 engage with pinion 290. Second plurality of gears265 engage with pinion 290 such that sliding first gear bar rack 263into and out of second slide channel 245 causes pinion 290 to rotate.And, rotation of pinion 290 causes second gear bar rack 263 to slideinto or out of second slide channel 245, depending on the direction ofrotation. Rotation of pinion 290 causes second gear bar rack 263 andsecond side plate 261 to move in direction 293 towards or away from asecond side edge 285 of bottom plate 240, depending on the direction ofrotation of pinion 290.

First and second sidewalls 250 and 260 are used to capture a mobiledevice that is to be held with mobile device holder 210. First andsecond sidewalls 250 and 260 are mechanically coupled to each otherthrough pinion 290. Rotation of pinion 290 will cause sidewalls 250 and260 to move towards or away from bottom plate 240. Also, moving one orthe other of sidewalls 250 or 260 towards or away from bottom plate 240will cause a corresponding motion of the other of first or secondsidewall 250 or 260, through pinion 290. Moving first and secondsidewalls 250 and 260 towards bottom plate 240 causes first and secondsidewalls 250 and 260 to grab and hold a mobile device with mobiledevice holder 210. First and second sidewalls 250 and 260 capture themobile device between first and second sidewalls 250 and 260. In thisway, pinion 290, first gear rack 252, and second gear rack 263 movefirst and second sidewalls 250 and 260 to capture the mobile device inmobile device holder 210.

Mobile device holders 110 and 210 have been shown and described. Mobiledevice holders 110 and 210 couple to a shopping cart handle or otherbar-shaped device so that mobile device holders 110 and 210 can hold amobile device for a customer in a retail store. Mobile device holders110 and 210 can do many things, including hold the mobile computingdevice, charge the mobile computing device, interface between the mobilecomputing device and input/output devices such as scanners, and cameras,and request customer assistance from the retail store. Mobile deviceholders 110 and 210 each include a handle coupler that couples mobiledevice holders 110 or 210 to a handle or other rod or bar. Mobile deviceholders 110 and 210 include a top plate, a bottom plate, and twosidewalls. The two sidewalls are slidingly coupled to the bottom platesuch that the two sidewalls capture the mobile computing device betweenthe two sidewalls. Mobile device holders 110 and 210 can be provided bythe retail store to the customer, or can be owned by the customer andbrought into the store.

FIG. 12 illustrates a method 300 of coupling a mobile computing deviceto a shopping cart. Method 300 of coupling a mobile computing device toa shopping cart includes block 310, where a top plate is coupled to abottom plate, and wherein the bottom plate comprises a first and asecond slide channel. The top or the bottom plate can containelectronics for communicating with the mobile computing device or theshopping cart. The top or the bottom plate can contain electronics forgenerating or receiving power or for charging the mobile computingdevice. The top or the bottom plate can contain electronics forcommunicating with input/output devices such as scanners, keyboards,cameras, displays, etc.

At block 320 describes a first sidewall is slidingly coupled to thebottom plate. AT block 330, a second sidewall is slidingly coupled tothe bottom plate. The first and second sidewalls slide into and out ofthe bottom plate to capture the mobile computing device between thefirst and the second sidewall. In some embodiments, the first and thesecond sidewall slide into and out of the top plate instead of thebottom plate.

In some embodiments, block 320 of slidingly coupling the first sidewallto the bottom plate includes coupling a pinion to the bottom plate. Insome embodiments, block 320 of slidingly coupling the first sidewall tothe bottom plate includes coupling a gear bar rack to a side plate toform the first sidewall. In some embodiments, block 320 of slidinglycoupling the first sidewall to the bottom plate includes extending thegear bar rack into the first slide channel such that the gear bar rackengages the pinion, and such that the side plate moves towards and awayfrom the bottom plate in response to rotation of the pinion.

In some embodiments, block 320 of slidingly coupling the first sidewallto the bottom plate includes coupling a coupler plate to a side plate toform the first sidewall. In some embodiments, block 320 of slidinglycoupling the first sidewall to the bottom plate includes slidinglycoupling the coupler plate into the first and the second slide channel.

Method 300 of coupling a mobile computing device to a shopping cartincludes block 340 where a first sleeve is coupled to the bottom plate.The first sleeve can be coupled to the bottom plate using a first sleevedovetail tongue coupled to the first sleeve, and a first sleeve dovetailgroove in the bottom plate, for example but not by way of limitation. Itis to be understood that many different coupling means may be used tocouple the first sleeve to the bottom plate.

At block 350, first sleeve is coupled to a handle of the shopping cart.In some embodiments, block 350 includes coupling the first sleeve to arod or a bar other than the shopping cart handle. Block 350 can includecoupling the first sleeve to any device which couples the first sleeveto the device and still allows the second sleeve to be coupled over thefirst sleeve. In some embodiments, the first sleeve is an incompleteannular cylinder with a first sleeve opening running the length of thefirst sleeve. In some embodiments, block 350 includes passing the handlethrough the first sleeve opening in the first sleeve such that the firstsleeve partially encircles the handle.

At block 360, a second sleeve is coupled over the first sleeve to lockthe first sleeve to the handle. In some embodiments, the second sleeveis an incomplete annular cylinder with a second sleeve opening extendinga length of the second sleeve. In some embodiments, block 360 includesextending the combination of the first sleeve and the handle through thesecond sleeve opening until the second sleeve partially encircles thefirst sleeve and the handle. In some embodiments, block 360 includesextending the combination of the first sleeve partially encircling thehandle through the second sleeve opening such that the second sleeveopening is adjacent a first back side of the first sleeve, and a firstsleeve opening of the first sleeve is adjacent a second back side of thesecond sleeve.

Block 370 includes capturing the mobile computing device between thefirst and the second sidewall. The first and the second sidewall slideinto and out of the bottom plate (or, in some embodiments, the topplate) so that the mobile computing device is captured between the firstand the second sidewall. In some embodiments, block 370 includes settingthe mobile computing device onto the top plate, and sliding the firstand the second sidewalls towards the mobile computing device until themobile computing device is captured between the first and the secondsidewall.

Method 300 can include many other acts. In some embodiments, method 300includes communicatively coupling the top plate to the mobile computingdevice. In some embodiments, method 300 includes communicativelycoupling the bottom plate to the mobile computing device. In someembodiments, method 300 includes coupling a mobile computing devicecharger to the top plate. In some embodiments, method 300 includescoupling electrical power to the top plate. In some embodiments, method300 includes electrically coupling a scanner to the top plate.

The embodiments and examples set forth herein were presented in order tobest explain the present invention and its practical application and tothereby enable those of ordinary skill in the art to make and use theinvention. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognizethat the foregoing description and examples have been presented for thepurposes of illustration and example only. The description as set forthis not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to theprecise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possiblein light of the teachings above.

What is claimed is:
 1. A clip for coupling a portable computing deviceto a shopping cart, the clip comprising: an inner sleeve, wherein theinner sleeve partially encircles and applies a force to a tubularelement of the shopping cart; and an outer sleeve coupled to the innersleeve, wherein the outer sleeve partially encircles the inner sleeveand couples the inner sleeve to the tubular element of the shoppingcart, wherein one of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve includes aprotrusion that mates with a groove in the other of the inner sleeve andthe outer sleeve for locking the inner sleeve in the outer sleeve, theinner sleeve further including a interlock slide that extends from aregion of the inner sleeve not encircled by the outer sleeve forcommunicating with a mobile device cradle, the portable computing devicecoupled to the mobile device cradle.
 2. The clip of claim 1, wherein theinner sleeve and the outer sleeve both have a C-shaped cross-section. 3.The clip of claim 2, wherein the interlock slide couples to a groove onthe device to couple the device to the clip.
 4. The clip of claim 3,wherein the inner sleeve further comprises two ridge protrusions, one oneither side of the inner sleeve outer surface.
 5. The clip of claim 4,wherein the outer sleeve comprises two openings, one each through eitherside of the outer sleeve.
 6. The clip of claim 5, wherein the outersleeve locks onto the inner sleeve in response to the outer sleevepartially encircling the inner sleeve and each one of the two ridgeprotrusions extending through a corresponding one of the two openings.7. The clip of claim 6, wherein the clip is locked onto the bar inresponse to the inner sleeve partially encircling the bar and the outersleeve locking onto the inner sleeve.
 8. A self-locking mechanism forcoupling a portable computing device to a shopping cart handle,comprising: a mobile device cradle for coupling with the portablecomputing device; an inner sleeve, wherein the inner sleeve partiallyencircles the bar; and an outer sleeve coupled to the inner sleeve,wherein the outer sleeve partially encircles the inner sleeve, andwherein the outer sleeve couples the inner sleeve and the clip to thebar, wherein one of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve includes aprotrusion that mates with a groove in the other of the inner sleeve andthe outer sleeve for locking the inner sleeve in the outer sleeve, theouter sleeve including a interlock slide that mates with the mobiledevice cradle.
 9. The self-locking mechanism of claim 8, wherein theinner sleeve and the outer sleeve both have a C-shaped cross-section.10. The self-locking mechanism of claim 8, wherein the interlock slidecouples to a groove on the device to couple the device to the clip. 11.The self-locking mechanism of claim 10, wherein the inner sleeve furthercomprises two ridge protrusions, one on either side of the inner sleeveouter surface.
 12. The self-locking mechanism of claim 11, wherein theouter sleeve comprises two openings, one each through either side of theouter sleeve.
 13. The self-locking mechanism of claim 12, wherein theouter sleeve locks onto the inner sleeve in response to the outer sleevepartially encircling the inner sleeve and each one of the two ridgeprotrusions extending through a corresponding one of the two openings.14. The self-locking mechanism of claim 13, wherein the clip is lockedonto the bar in response to the inner sleeve partially encircling thebar and the outer sleeve locking onto the inner sleeve.
 15. A mobiledevice holder for a shopping cart, the mobile device holder comprising:a top plate that receives a mobile computing device; a bottom platecoupled to the top plate; a pair of sidewalls moveably coupled to thebottom plate, wherein the mobile computing device is captured betweenthe pair of sidewalls; and a handle coupler coupled to the bottom plate,wherein the handle coupler comprises: a first sleeve, wherein the firstsleeve is coupled to the bottom plate, and wherein the first sleevecouples the bottom plate to the handle; and a second sleeve whichremoveably fits over the first sleeve; wherein the mobile device holderis coupled to the handle in response to the second sleeve extending overthe first sleeve after the first sleeve is coupled to the handle. 16.The shopping cart mobile device holder of claim 15, further comprising acharging pad encased in the top plate.
 17. The shopping cart mobiledevice holder of claim 15, wherein the top plate is communicativelycoupled to the mobile computing device.
 18. The shopping cart mobiledevice holder of claim 15, wherein the bottom plate comprises: arectangular plate of rigid material; a first slide channel coupled to atop edge of the rectangular plate; and a second slide channel coupled toa bottom edge of the rectangular plate.
 19. The shopping cart mobiledevice holder of claim 18, further comprising a pinion coupled to thebottom plate, and wherein the first sidewall comprises: a first sideplate; and a first gear bar rack extending from the first side plate;wherein the first gear bar rack has a first plurality of gears, andwherein the first gear bar rack slidingly couples to the first slidechannel, and wherein the first plurality of gears mechanically engagethe pinion; and wherein the first gear bar rack moves the first sideplate towards and away from a first side edge of the bottom plate inresponse to rotation of the pinion.
 20. The shopping cart mobile deviceholder of claim 19, wherein the second sidewall comprises: a second sideplate; and a second gear bar rack extending from the second side plate;wherein the second gear bar rack has a second plurality of gears, andwherein the second gear bar rack slidingly couples to the second slidechannel, and wherein the second plurality of gears mechanically engagethe pinion; and wherein the second gear bar rack moves the second sideplate towards and away from a second side edge of the bottom plate inresponse to rotation of the pinion.